The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District continues to monitor various areas throughout Yolo and Sacramento counties where numerous mosquito samples and dead birds have tested positive for West Nile virus. Laboratory results available Wednesday confirmed that 19 mosquito samples and 18 dead birds tested positive for the virus.

“We continue to see widespread West Nile virus activity,” said Gary Goodman, district manager. “The hot summer temperatures continue to amplify the virus. … With the hottest months of the season ahead of us, we will likely continue to see increased virus activity, putting the public at risk if they are bitten by an infected mosquito.”

Yolo County also has seen activity and some of the dead birds that tested positive Wednesday were from Davis.

Recently, the district conducted aerial spraying to combat mosquitoes and West Nile virus over areas of South Sacramento. Preliminary results show that the abundance of mosquitoes and infection rates decreased significantly in the area treated as compared to untreated areas.

Increased activity throughout Sacramento and Yolo counties comes during a time when the entire state is also seeing a rise in West Nile virus. To date, nine human cases have been confirmed from five counties compared to only one person at this same time last year.

In addition, dead birds infected with the virus also have increased significantly this season. To date, 497 birds have tested positive compared to only 156 during the same period in 2013.

The district will continue to monitor all activity through widespread mosquito trapping and testing as well as ground treatments if necessary. Residents can subscribe to receive email notifications for mosquito treatments by ZIP code. To sign up, visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net and go to Spray Notifications. Information for current treatments planned is also available on the district website.

How to help

Practice the six D’s of mosquito prevention:
* Drain standing water that may produce mosquitoes
* Dawn and dusk are times to avoid being outdoors
* Dress appropriately by wearing long sleeves and pants when outside
* Defend yourself by using an effective insect repellent
* Door and window screens should be in good working condition
* District personnel are also available to address any mosquito problems. Call 1-800-429-1022 or visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net